by Steve Levy
on
Wed, Jan 16, 2013 1:01 AM

Updated Wed, Jan 16, 2013 9:48 AM

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Recruiting is an interesting piece in your football career's puzzle. It has its ups, it goes away for short period of time during the dead periods, and it has its downs. I think one who goes through such a roller coaster of emotions like the recruiting process is someone who learns a lot about himself and will benefit from the experience in the future.

If you are reading this, two weeks into January, and don’t have an official offer from a university or just really overwhelmed about this whole process, fear no more.

This is what you can do before Feb. 6:

1. Be patient and politely persistent

A lot of different variables can happen within one month. Other players committing can open up doors for you at a desired school, and athletes tend to fall off coaches' "boards” for a number of reasons. That’s why you have to worry about only what you can control. Also, no coach in America enjoys hearing from dad or a family member on an e-mail blast everyday, trying to convince them why they should pick their son. Stay away from that. It will throw up a red flag and perceive to be desperate.

2. Stay positive

It’s very hard sometimes to stay positive, especially with a stressful recruiting process. It’s very important to just keep doing the things you have been doing that led you to this point. Also, make time for your friends, go to the movies, and escape from the recruiting process every now and then. Remember, everything happens for a reason and good things will happen if you always stay positive.

3. Talk to your family

Your family can be your No. 1 ally throughout this whole process, but only if you let them. Include them after you hear from a college coach, explain how you feel and what your wants and needs are. This is the biggest decision of your young life. There's nothing wrong with having family involved.

4. Ask questions

Talk to your high school coach as much as you can. Remember, he or she is selling you and putting their reputation on the line for you. Coaches do this because of all the hard work and dedication you gave to them over a four-year span. Take advantage of this role model and be sure to ask many, many questions.

5. Be honest with yourself

Are you the type of person who wants the big campus, the 100,000 fans In the stands and being the big man on the big stage? Are you someone who values academics? Are you more of a smaller atmosphere athlete who doesn't like big crowds? Are you willing to walk onto a bigger program and give up smaller school offers? So many questions you can ask when reflecting, so it’s very important to be honest with yourself in order to find the best fit and make the right decision for your future.

Most importantly, have fun and enjoy this experience.

Steve Levy covers football for MSG Varsity. Follow him on Twitter: @Stevelevy3